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10 Free Things to Do in Aspen This Winter

Bud Light hosts a concert series each winter in Aspen that are free to the public. Each show is held outside at either the base of Aspen Mountain, Snowmass Base Village, or downtown Aspen. The series goes until March 27th and starts this weekend, January 24th with SBCR DJ Set- The Bloody Beetroots performing at the base of Aspen Mountain. Other performers this winter include Cracker, Umphrey’s McGee, Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Iration.

2. Hit the Skintrack

Uphill skiing has been gaining immense popularity in Aspen and thanks in large part to management at Aspen Skiing Company, this sport is free for everyone. Of course, there are some rules put in place for safety, but many other ski resorts across America have either an associated fee for uphill traffic, or even banned it altogether in some areas. For a list of rules and regulations, click here.

This contemporary art museum always has a number of exhibits showcased from artist from all over the world, always free of admission to the public. The Aspen Art Museum also hosts a variety of free events from guided tours, their new Sunday Cinema program, lectures and more. For an entire list of upcoming events at the museum click here.

4. Cross Country Skiing

Usually places will charge a nominal fee for the use of groomed trails, as a lot of work goes into maintaining them, but the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System is yours to enjoy at no cost at all. Check out their website for maps, rules, and more information.

Bring the kids over to Aspen Center for Environmental Studies’ Hallam Lake location for a fun tour of the nature preserve right in town. ACES is home to a fun, knowledgeable group of people who all share a sincere passion for the environment. Make sure to inquire about the free daily programs offered in the summer, too!

Hiking season isn't just for the summer months. The snowshoe access in Aspen is amazing and right out your back door. Head to Smuggler Road, Hunter Creek Trailhead, or any other local favorite spot and enjoy winter in the woods.

The Red Brick Center for the Arts has various art exhibits on display throughout the year. First Thursday openings celebrate monthly exhibits of local art and a variety of arts education and experiences for adults and youth. Access to the exhibits are always free to the public!

If you have your own pair of skates, then ice skating is FREE for you to enjoy at the Aspen Recreation Center during public skate hours. Also, feel free to bring a sled for the 'Whoa Nelly' sledding hill right outside.

9. The Legacy of Herbert Bayer. Guided tours of the Herbert Bayer art exhibit are offered for free this winter and spring at the Resnick Gallery located on the Aspen Meadows Campus. The Legacy of Herbert Bayer exhibit offers a broad perspective, surveying Bayer’s lifework. With highlighted works including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, photographer and more, that have all been gifted or loaned to the Institute from private collections.

10. Enjoy easy access to the Power of Four. Aspen is one of the few towns that actually provides free transportation within city limits. Thanks to the local bus system, Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA), guests can get around to Aspen, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass for free!